Variation in Plant Functional Traits along Altitudinal Gradient and Land Use Types in Sagarmatha National Park and Buffer Zone, Nepal

Plant functional traits in Sagarmatha National Park and its buffer zone vary significantly with altitude and land-use disturbance, revealing strong adaptations to environmental stresses. Research found that clonal species dominate disturbed areas like exploited forests and meadows, while non-clonal species thrive at higher altitudes. Herbs and shrubs were most prevalent in higher elevations and disturbed zones, with notable trait variations due to grazing, fire, litter collection, and trampling. The study, conducted across 2,200–3,800 meters above sea level, examined eight traits in 60 plant species from 40 plots, highlighting how altitude, climate, and human disturbance shape plant functional diversity.

Shah, S., Shrestha, K. K., & Scheidegger, C. (2019). Variation in Plant Functional Traits along Altitudinal Gradient and Land Use Types in Sagarmatha National Park and Buffer Zone, Nepal. American Journal of Plant Sciences, 10(04), 595–614. https://doi.org/10.4236/ajps.2019.104043